Have you watched this year’s rom-com movie blockbuster, ‘Crazy Rich Asians?’ Where would Rachel and Nick head to for a romantic retreat? Where would Eleanor Young, our hero’s mother, feel right at home? What about a dream honeymoon destination for newlyweds Colin and Araminta?
High-net-worth individuals in Asia love nothing better than going all out with an exclusive private villa rental in the ‘land of smiles’ that promises the luxury of a customized stay in their own private oasis. With their own in-villa butler, glorious infinity pool, and magnificent sea views what’s not to love about a luxurious vacation villa in Thailand; here are five of the best:
Villa Amarapura, Phuket
A cool, hip, and oh so contemporary vacation stay, Villa Amarapura is one of the most sought-after luxury villas in Phuket among high-end travelers that exude beach-club chic sensation and is a vision in white from its beachfront location in the private and upscale enclave of Phuket’s Cape Yamu. Why settle only for sunset views when you can see the sunrise too from this east-coast beauty spot that also looks back to the west. This private estate villa has the ‘x-factor’, with its putting green and golf simulation as well as five staff at your beck and call. This ultimate high-class retreat comes with funky artistic touches and spa-like bathrooms.
Villa Sawarin, Phuket
Big, bold, and beautiful; Villa Sawarin woos and wows in equal measure, with nine spectacular bedrooms and an impressive atrium living space in Phuket’s tranquil Cape Yamu, which views out over the iconic Phang Nga Bay. If you are vacationing in HNW style you may want an in-villa spa, your private chef, and perhaps your putting green, if so then you don’t need to look any further. Of course, to push the boat out, what about your own boathouse with kayaks down by the beach just beyond the villa gardens along with your own beach house complete with a wine fridge and terrace. Add a saltwater pool, full gym, and acres of botanical gardens to create a blissful beachfront break.
Villa Akatsuki, Koh Samui
While many would swoon at the idea of just one infinity pool seeming to touch the horizon, the question remains, “why should you settle for one when you can have three?” Villa Akatsuki, one of the most luxurious villas in Koh Samui boasts three cascading pools, with lawns stretching out to meet the pristine white sands of chilled-out Lipa Noi Beach; on the stunning sunset side of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand. Beyond the private chef, movie room, and in-villa spa promising holistic therapies, the Thai and Japanese curated aesthetic is unforgettable. If luxury is a state of being, then the Feng Shui vibe adds the ultimate feel-good factor.
Villa Verai, Phuket
It’s a designer darling! Knowing that the avant-garde, award-winning architect Jean-Michel Gathy created the one-of-a-kind design of Villa Verai is enough for the luxury traveler to be impressed. Internationally renowned interior designer, Deborah Oppenheimer creates luxurious spaces, while separate quarters are home to three staff and a house manager. What is truly beautiful, aside from the privately commissioned artwork and fittings, is this Phuket villa’s 40-meter infinity pool that looks out from its coveted Cape Yamu location out towards Phang Nga Bay.
Villa Anavaya, Koh Samui
‘Crazy Rich Asians’ often arrive on the island of Koh Samui on their private jets and can get straight into the vacation lifestyle as they sink into a comfy outdoor sofa, poolside, before enjoying a spot of lunch al fresco style, prepared by a private chef. Villa Anavaya comes with five staff creating a laid-back atmosphere where you don’t have to lift a finger; just take a dip in the L-shaped infinity pool looking out from the private north-eastern side of the island. A rooftop terrace takes you to the next level while your private cinema is what living life luxuriously is all about.
